When I was younger, there were a number of TV shows based around singles being perfectly matched with people they had never met before. Often the contestants were not even allowed to see the other person until they had gone through a series of qualifying levels. This involved finding out things like what the individuals like to do on the weekends, were they into sports, did they enjoy dining out and drinking fine wine. Family values, opinions about having children and so on.

These days, I guess with online apps, it has become slightly more ‘swipe left or swipe right’… but the systems that are set up for Perfect Match or E-harmony or whatever platforms people use, are still matching people in the same way – do they have enough things in common to be a perfect match.

Forgive me for comparing business to a night out on a blind date, but essentially what we are all looking for from both the company’s perspective and the consumers’ perspective is a perfect match, the right fit, a connection that can grow into a beautiful partnership, and profitable businesses.

But finding someone to warm up to on a cold night in business is not as easy as a simple swipe. There are a number of factors that contribute to a business match made in heaven.

 

As a business, here are 3 points to consider when seeking out new business prospects:

 

Are you the perfect fit for the clients’ needs.

If someone has come in looking for a beauty products and you only sell cleaning gear, then it’s obvious that you are not the perfect fit. In this instance it is very clear. However, in today’s world of ever changing technology, sometimes it is easy to step across the line of what your business can actually deliver. Set yourself very clear boundaries of who you are and what you do. Then ensure that your new client understands that too. That way from the beginning of the relationship there are no misunderstandings or unrealistic expectations.

 

Are you targeting the right people?

If you are not getting the love letters in your mailbox from new leads or new customers enquiring about your business, you need to ask yourself if you are targeting the right people for the services your business offers. Observing the data that your company is producing is essential. Correct targeting can help you tap into new pools of ideal prospects and ensure that you are not wasting your time with enquiries from people who are not the right fit.

 

Remember that your customer defines your business

Choosing a primary customer to concentrate your strategy around helps to move your business in the right direction and eliminates the need to be all things for all people (a huge problem, especially with start-ups). Your primary customers are not always the ones who give you the most money, but the ones who can help you unlock your business potential faster. Three questions are helpful here – do they align with your values as a company? Do they have the necessary capabilities of supporting the deliverables your foresee as required? What is the profit potential of this primary customer?

 

By focusing your attention on these three areas you can quickly get back into the business dating game and have offers of interest flooding through your door.

Photo by LinkedIn Sales Navigator on Unsplash